What You'll Learn
- How to isolate wrist movements for more expressive and articulated hands.
- Techniques to release tension in the traps and neck for a longer balletic line.
- The mechanics of engaging the lats to properly support the arms in second position.
- Precise placement and alignment for low fifth, first, second, and high fifth positions.
- Strategies for improving upper body proprioception without relying on mirrors.
About This Video
In the world of ballet, the upper body carries the artistry while the lower body handles the technical execution. This 15-minute practice session at Broche Ballet, titled 'Strength and Beauty: Shoulders, Elbows, and Wrists,' dives deep into the intricate mechanics of the arms. Many dancers struggle with tension in the neck and trapezius muscles, which can hinder the fluidity of their movement.
This lesson addresses those common pitfalls by focusing on isolation and mobility. We begin with targeted exercises for the shoulders, elbows, and wrists. By isolating the wrist, you learn to articulate the hands without disturbing the rest of the arm—a key component of professional-looking port de bras.
We also explore 'turtle' shrugs and chin-to-chest stretches to release the traps, allowing the shoulders to drop and the neck to lengthen for that classic balletic line. A significant portion of this class is dedicated to proprioception. Developing an internal sense of where your arms are in space is crucial for center work, where mirrors may not always be available.
You will practice small, controlled arm circles to refine your spatial awareness. Finally, we apply these technical foundations to the classical port de bras positions. The instructor provides detailed refinements for low fifth, first, second, and high fifth positions.
You will learn the importance of keeping the elbow 'patch' rotated forward to engage the lats and support the arm from the back. We also discuss the proper height and distance for each position, ensuring your arms are placed to create the longest, most elegant lines possible. Whether you are looking to find more strength in your second position or grace in your high fifth, this practice provides the technical tools to elevate your ballet artistry.
